Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Low-set, strong and sturdily built, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi gives an impression of substance in a small space. He is one of the most agreeable small house dogs, as well as an avid competitor in many dog sports, including conformation, herding and obedience. The Pembroke Corgi is a separate breed from the Cardigan Corgi, possessing a shorter body and straighter, lighter boned legs. His ears are pointed at the tip and stand erect, and he has a short tail. The coat can be red, sable, fawn, black and tan with or without white markings.
The Corgi from Pembrokeshire is a breed of considerable antiquity. The direct ancestors of the Pembroke were brought across the Channel in 1107 by Flemish weavers. The early progenitor is said to have had a resemblance to the old Schipperkes and sprang from the same family that includes the Keeshond, Pomeranian, Samoyed, Chow Chow, Norwegian Elkhound and Finnish Spitz.
Breed Profile
Bold and friendly, the Pembroke responds well to training and loves his family, but he may try to herd you! He thrives on farms but can adapt to a variety of living situations if given regular exercise. This breed also requires routine brushing.
Grooming
The Corgi is a herding dog. Herding dogs have a high energy level and are very intelligent, so they need a job, so they do not get bored. The Corgi has a medium dense double coat and needs to be groomed every 4 – 8 weeks, with more frequent grooming during the shedding seasons of spring and fall when they change coats. As long as the undercoat is removed the outer guard coat will provide shade for your dog.
Eyes
Opti-Soothe Eye Wash is a must. Flush the eyes of any foreign matter and keep the eye moist.
Ears
Use Ear Care to clean the ears and help dry out any moisture deep within the ear, this will help with the odor and prevent infection. Only clean as far as you can see.
Paws
Because they herd out in the field, they need Paw Balm to keep their pads soft and pliable to keep them from drying and cracking.
Bathing
The first bath is for general cleaning to take off the dirt and grime. Follow up with the second bath and target the need of the dog. If your dog has allergies or skin irritations use Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo followed by a medicated shampoo. Corgi’s with normal skin and coat can be bathed with any of our wonderful scent renewal products for long lasting fragrance. Be sure to end the bath with conditioner. This will help keep the coat hydrated to protect against harsh weather conditions. Simple Shed Shampoo and Simple Shed Treatment during the spring and fall shedding season will help release undercoat so the seasonal coat can come in properly.
Coat Care
Because of the double coat of the breed, brushing is essential. Simple Shed and Static Spray as you brush during shedding season, or Aloe Hydrating Spray in between shedding cycles is recommended to help protect the coat.
Show Dog Tips
High Sheen Finishing Spray will add that extra bit of shine before entering the ring while not leaving an oily residue. Aloe Hydrating Spray between shows will keep away dander and keep the coat hydrated and looking its best. Quick Finish Styling Spray helps the coat to dry faster and helps prevent tangles if used regularly. Freeze! Styling Gel while fluffing the coat will add volume where needed in the ring without leaving a sticky residue.
Common Problems
Double coated breeds are prone to hot spots due to their thick dense coats. Shave the area around the hot spot and apply Hot Spot Foam to dry the area out and keep them from licking the wound. 3 in 1 Healing Cream should be kept on hand since the Aussie is prone to accidents and injuries while out in the field.